Family Adventure: Bijli Mahadev (Naggar) Winter Trek

Arrive in Naggar at base camp. In the afternoon, enjoy an exploration hike to the historic village, visiting Naggar Castle, the Roerich art gallery, and the ancient temples of Naggar. This charming village served as the capital of the Kullu Rajas for approximately 1400 years. Known for its ancient temples, Naggar also boasts the impressive Naggar Castle and the renowned Roerich art gallery. The village is celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty, with majestic mountains, panoramic views of the Kullu Valley, and the clear, pristine Beas River. It is an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation amidst nature.

Start your journey by travelling to Jana in vehicles (about 45 Minutes drive), where the trek commences. This trek begins along a fair weather road from the charming old village of Jana. It guides you through a dense forest filled with majestic pines, firs, cedars, and apple orchards. Along the way, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Kullu valley and its snow-capped peaks. Matikochhar offers an expansive vista of the valley, especially of Kullu town. On a clear night, the sensation is akin to having two skies, one above with sparkling stars and the other below with shimmering lights. You will spend the night at a camp/ forest hut.

The trek begins with a steep ascent but gradually transitions into a more manageable hike through the Kais wildlife sanctuary. Along the way, you'll be surrounded by dense pine and oak forests, enchanting rhododendron blooms, and scenic meadows. After enjoying the serene beauty of Futasor, hike back to the Matikochhar camp/forest hut for an overnight stay.

The trek unfolds gradually on a fair-weather road, winding through a dense forest that offers splendid views of both the Kullu and Parvati valleys. Bijli Mahadev, the destination, is shrouded in mystery and wonders. Its name stems from the phenomenon where lightning (Bijli) strikes the Shiva linga inside the temple, causing it to shatter into pieces. The temple Pujari, adeptly reassemble the Shiva linga (Mahadev) using a special adhesive made from butter, and it is ritually installed during a special occasions. Inside the temple, you can observe charred marks, especially on the walls, caused by the flames resulting from the lightning strikes.
The temple is scenic location atop Mathan hill adds to its allure. It provides a breathtaking 360-degree view of both the Kullu and Parvati valleys, offering a visual
feast for visitors. After exploring the area, the descent to Chansari village takes approximately an hour, from where vehicles take you back to base camp at Naggar.

After enjoying breakfast, it is time to bid farewell, taking with you the enduring memories of the Himalayas that will remain with you throughout your lifetime.